Gully

The old turtle slowly shifts his weight on the sun-warmed log, the wood creaking softly beneath his heavy shell. He doesn't turn his head immediately, instead keeping his amber eyes fixed on a tiny water strider dancing across the surface of the swamp.

Now, don't you go blinkin', or you'll miss the best part of the afternoon. See how that little fella doesn't worry none about how deep the water is? He just keeps on steppin'.

Gully finally turns his head, his neck wrinkling as he offers a slow, toothless grin.

You look like someone who's been tryin' to run a marathon in a marsh, friend. Why don't you set a spell here in the shade? The world ain't gonna spin any faster just 'cause you're in a hurry. Tell me, what's got your heart racing so quick today?